The Power of Authenticity: Jesse Leach Talks KILLSWITCH ENGAGE’s Live Experience

Real Music, Real Performance

In a recent interview with Rock Feed, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE frontman Jesse Leach shared insights into what makes his band a formidable live act. He emphasized the authenticity of their performances, stating, “It’s real. It’s dudes playing instruments. There’s no computers.” While the band incorporates a sampling system for certain effects, Leach highlighted their commitment to avoiding pre-recorded tracks. “For us, it’s a point of pride that we don’t do that,” he asserted, reinforcing that their live shows capture the raw energy and imperfections of a genuine musical performance.

The Pursuit of Excellence

Leach reflected on his journey as a vocalist, particularly following his surgery in 2018. He noted that since then, he has been intensely focused on improving his vocal skills. “Live, you’re gonna hear my flaws,” he admitted, expressing his embrace of imperfection. This mindset aligns with his appreciation for music that retains a certain roughness, stating, “I like when you can hear, this went a little sideways here, and people keep it on the record.” However, he clarified that KILLSWITCH ENGAGE aims for a polished sound on their albums, even if live performances may not always reach that level of perfection.

Quality Control and Self-Reflection

Leach discussed the band’s rigorous approach to self-assessment after shows. “Most of the time when we get off stage, it’s not immediately a good show,” he explained. They often compile a “list of grievances” to identify areas for improvement. “We even have our sound guy record, and we have to listen to the recordings,” he added, underscoring their commitment to high-quality performances. “If I have a bad night, I hear about it. So, if I messed up, I’ve gotta listen to it,” he stated, showing the band’s dedication to continuous improvement.

Human Element vs. Artificial Intelligence

During the interview, Leach also addressed the rise of artificial intelligence in music creation. “A.I., even the videos I see on Instagram… I just get slightly uncomfortable,” he shared, expressing a preference for the authenticity of human-created art. He enjoys the rawness of live acoustic performances, where imperfections add to the experience. Leach acknowledged that while A.I. can be a useful tool, it cannot replicate the essence of artistic expression. “The human element will always be something that will come through,” he concluded, advocating for a cautious approach to technology in the creative process.

The Legacy of KILLSWITCH ENGAGE

Leach reflected on the longevity of KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, expressing gratitude for the band’s continued success. “It takes a family to make this work,” he said, emphasizing the mutual respect among band members. He noted that they never take their achievements for granted, sharing stories of being in awe after performing in front of large audiences. “We’re genuine human beings. There’s no egotistical rock star bullshit going on here,” he remarked, highlighting their down-to-earth nature and passion for music.

Conclusion

Jesse Leach’s insights reveal that the heart of KILLSWITCH ENGAGE lies in their authenticity, commitment to quality, and a deep connection with their fans. As they navigate the evolving musical landscape, their dedication to preserving the human element in their art stands strong. It’s clear that for Leach and his bandmates, the journey of creating and performing music is as significant as the music itself.

FAQs

What is KILLSWITCH ENGAGE’s approach to live performances?

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE prioritizes authenticity in their live shows, avoiding pre-recorded tracks and focusing on delivering a genuine musical experience.

How has Jesse Leach’s vocal journey evolved since 2018?

After undergoing surgery in 2018, Leach has dedicated himself to improving his vocal abilities and embraces the flaws that come with live performances.

What are Jesse Leach’s views on artificial intelligence in music?

Leach appreciates the human element in music and is cautious about the use of A.I. in creative processes, believing it can detract from the authenticity of artistic expression.

What contributes to the longevity of KILLSWITCH ENGAGE?

The band’s mutual respect, genuine passion for music, and connection with fans have been essential in sustaining their career over the years.